Samsun, August 21, 2025 – Samsunspor, the pride of the city of May 19, is set to travel to Athens with a powerful message: “The language of football is peace, and its heart is brotherhood.” As the club prepares for its UEFA Europa League match against Panathinaikos, Samsunspor is not only aiming for victory on the pitch but also to foster a spirit of unity and camaraderie off it.
Under the leadership of President Yüksel Yıldırım, Samsunspor has embraced a vision that transcends sport, echoing Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s timeless words: “Peace at home, peace in the world.” The club’s motto, “Competition on the pitch, friendship in the stands,” encapsulates their commitment to fair play and mutual respect, a philosophy they carry proudly to Athens.
Yüksel Yıldırım, a prominent Turkish businessman and the sole owner of Samsunspor since 2019, has been instrumental in transforming the club from its challenging days in the TFF 2. Lig to a competitive force in the Turkish Süper Lig and now on the European stage. His investments in infrastructure, youth development, and strategic transfers have revitalized the club, earning praise from fans and observers alike.
Notably, Yıldırım’s recent announcement of four new signings, including players like Afonso Sousa, Toni Borevkovic, and Albert Posiadała, has sparked excitement among supporters, signaling Samsunspor’s ambition to compete at the highest levels.
Beyond the pitch, Yıldırım’s leadership extends to promoting values of unity and sportsmanship. His global vision, shaped by his success as the CEO of CoreX Holding and a key figure in international business, has positioned Samsunspor as a club with a forward-thinking approach. From acquiring stakes in clubs like France’s Dunkerque to investing over €10 million in Samsunspor’s infrastructure, Yıldırım is building a legacy that blends sporting excellence with social responsibility.
As Samsunspor prepares to face Panathinaikos, the club’s message is clear: they are not just competitors but ambassadors of peace. “We are going to Athens to build a bridge of friendship,” the club declared, emphasizing their desire to unite fans through the universal language of football.
This sentiment aligns with Yıldırım’s broader mission to make Samsunspor a beacon of progress in Turkish football, both domestically and internationally.
Samsunspor’s journey to Athens is more than a match-it’s a celebration of sport’s power to connect cultures and communities. With Yıldırım at the helm, the club is poised to leave a lasting impression, both on the scoreboard and in the hearts of football fans worldwide.
“Yurtta Sulh, Cihanda Sulh.”
“Sahada Rekabet, Tribünde Dostluk.”